As happened in the summer of 2022, the Atriplex halimus plants begin to wither and fall to the ground. It is a strategy of the species to withstand the most unfavorable period due to the extremely high temperatures of summer.
Observing plant growth in amended and unamended plots, it is evident that the amendment is having a very positive effect on vegetation growth.
In June 2023, the vegetation cover in the pilot plot continues to increase, both by the specimens that were planted and by the spontaneous vegetation that continues to colonize the area. Many new individuals of Pinus halepensis, Dorycnium pentaphyllum and Atriplex halimus have been found. Among the species that were not planted and that have …
Vegetation cover continues to increase in the pilot plot Read More »
In June 2023, 18 months after planting, we measure the height and width of the plants again. The development of the vegetation is very remarkable, with some species such as Atriplex halimus and Dorycnium pentaphyllum with individuals reaching more than 2 meters in height.
In the laboratory, the collected plants are separated into roots, stems, and leaves. Each part is weighed separately to quantify its biomass. Aliquots of each part are then washed and dried in the drier for further analysis.
During plant sampling we have observed many roots growing between the layers that form the mining waste, in parallel to the soil surface. These roots can grow more than 1 meter away from the plant trunk. In other casers, when the roots find cracks penetrate deep in the soil.
